The research is part of the newly created Australia-wide Quantum Technologies Research Network, set up under the Next Generation Technologies Fund — a $6.6 million initiative to develop quantum technologies for use in defence applications. UQ has been awarded two projects focused on developing quantum accelerometers, gyroscopes, sonar and magnetometers, with total funding of $1.7 million.

“This is an exciting new direction, applying quantum physics to major challenges in modern technology,” said UQ scientist Professor Warwick Bowen, who claims the research could position Australia as a world leader in ultraprecise sensors for unmanned and autonomous vehicles.

“These sensors will be so precise that the laws of quantum physics are required to understand how they function.

“And they’ll be built from both nanoengineered mechanical devices fabricated on a silicon chip and atomic gases cooled until they behave as matter waves.”

UQ’s Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop was similarly enthusiastic, stating, “The Quantum Technologies Research Network will position Australia at the forefront of this important area of technology.

“Taking sophisticated new sensors out of the lab and into practical applications is challenging, but working with the ADF, NASA and other industry partners will make this possible,” she said.

“By partnering with industry, academia and government research agencies, we can push the potential of quantum technologies, create prototype systems and demonstrate the practical application of quantum systems to complicated and demanding defence problems.”

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